RefreshHow it works & interactions with other cards

What Refresh Does

Refresh creates a replacement effect known as a 'regeneration shield' on a target creature. This shield lasts until the end of the current turn and will be consumed the next time that creature would be destroyed. Additionally, the spell allows you to draw a card as it resolves, regardless of whether the shield is actually used later.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When you cast Refresh, you choose a target creature. As the spell resolves, the target gains the regeneration shield and you immediately draw a card. If the creature is later dealt lethal damage or affected by a 'destroy' effect, the shield is used: the creature is not destroyed, all damage is removed from it, it becomes tapped, and if it was in combat, it is removed from combat.

Common Mistakes

A common misconception is that Refresh can save a creature that has already been destroyed or placed in the graveyard; it must be cast before the destruction event occurs. Also, note that regeneration does not work against effects that reduce a creature's toughness to zero or less, nor does it stop 'sacrifice' effects. Finally, if the target creature becomes illegal before Refresh resolves, the entire spell is flicked—meaning you will not draw a card.

When to Play It

Refresh is best used reactively. Cast it in response to an opponent's removal spell or during the declare blockers step to ensure your creature survives a trade. Because it draws a card, it is rarely a 'dead' card in hand, as you can even cast it on an opponent's turn just to cycle through your deck if needed.

Interaction examples

Surviving Targeted Destruction

Beast Within

Step 1: Your opponent casts Beast Within targeting your favorite creature. Step 2: In response, you cast Refresh targeting that same creature. Step 3: Refresh resolves, giving the creature a shield and drawing you a card. Step 4: Beast Within attempts to destroy the creature. The regeneration shield is consumed: the creature survives, becomes tapped, and your opponent still receives their 3/3 Beast token.

Regeneration vs. Indestructible

Heroic Intervention

Step 1: You cast Heroic Intervention to give your team indestructible. Step 2: You also cast Refresh on a specific creature. While both effects prevent destruction, they function differently. If a destruction effect occurs, indestructible prevents it without any cost. If the creature lost indestructible (via a different spell), the Refresh shield would then stand as the secondary line of defense.